Areas of Expertise

Expert Bio

Melissa Fry is the director of the Applied Research and Education Center and associate professor of sociology. The center produces issue-based regional social and economic research, engages community-based research, conducts needs assessments, and facilitates strategic planning for nonprofits and government agencies in Southern Indiana. The Applied Research and Education Center employs undergraduate research assistants who enhance their classroom learning through work on local applied research projects. Fry has expanded the teaching aspects of the center's work, developed a Bachelor of Science degree in applied sociology and contributed to the development of interdisciplinary sustainability and regeneration studies programs.